Japanese Nobel Laureate Predicts Advances in Cancer Immunotherapy Within Two Decades
Osaka, Japan – Honorary Professor Sakaguchi Simon (74), a recent Nobel Prize in Physiology laureate, stated that immunotherapy holds teh “most ideal” promise for cancer treatment. He shared this perspective during a press conference at Osaka university, where he also received a congratulatory call from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Responding to a question from Prime Minister Ishiba regarding the potential of his research to combat cancer, Professor Sakaguchi explained that T cells, known for their immune response to viruses and bacteria, can also be directed against cancer cells. While cautiously addressing the timeline for realizing this potential, he suggested that meaningful progress could be made within 20 years. He emphasized that science progresses incrementally,”not a straight line,but is done in the limit of the times,and it is indeed proceeded to various forms of contributions.”
Professor Sakaguchi was awarded the Nobel Prize, jointly with American life scientists Mary E. Brungko (64) and Fred Ramszdell (65+), for their discovery of ‘regulatory T cells’ – cells that suppress the immune response. This breakthrough has long been considered a strong contender for a Nobel Prize due to its implications for treating autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and type 1 diabetes, and also cancer.
He recounted the initial challenges faced in gaining acceptance for his research, noting that the concept of lymphocytes suppressing the immune response was initially unpopular and led to difficulties in securing funding. However, he acknowledged growing support from researchers with similar ideas worldwide.
Professor Sakaguchi expressed hope that the Nobel Prize will stimulate further research in the field of immunology and accelerate the translation of discoveries into clinical applications. He also noted his surprise at receiving the award before seeing more widespread clinical advancement of his research. He believes immunotherapy offers a safe and effective approach, perhaps allowing for the prevention of immune responses once cancer is detected.
With this award, Japan’s total number of Nobel Prizes in Physiology or Medicine rises to six. Including awards in other fields, Japan has seen 29 individuals and one organization recognized with a Nobel Prize since the awards began in 1901. This follows Japan’s success in 2023, when the Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Nihonhidan Temple, a japanese organization representing victims of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
